Have you ever felt much more dehydrated when you are sick? Yes, almost everyone indeed feels the same way, and it is not just an idea. In fact, staying hydrated becomes even more critical when you are sick, as hydration plays a crucial role in recovery. When you are ill, your body demands more fluids to fight off the illness. But how to ensure you are hydrated when drinking, and even thinking of drinking water makes you nauseous?
This comprehensive blog by the Pexpo team is the ultimate answer you need to the above question. It will share the best tips to follow to stay hydrated when you are sick to support your recovery.
Why Hydration is Essential When You are Sick?
When you are unwell, your body works even more. The overworking, medications, vomiting, fever, and diarrhoea all lead to increased fluid loss. So, if you do not replace these fluids, it can lead to significant dehydration and delay your recovery process or even make you more sick. On the other hand, proper hydration helps with the following.
- Regulate Body Temperature- Fluids cool down your body and help regulate temperature when you have a fever.
- Flush Out Toxins- Hydration helps eliminate waste products from your body. The elimination of toxins from your body enables you to recover faster.
- Maintain Energy Levels- Dehydration also helps maintain your energy levels, which are significantly lower when you are sick.
- Support Immune Function- Hydration also helps with the optimal functioning of the immune system, allowing you to recover faster from your illness.
How Much Should You Drink?
The general hydration rule to follow when you are sick is to drink 8 cups of fluids every day. However, this might vary depending on the severity of your illness. You might need much more than 8 cups. Also, you must listen to your body to know about its hydration needs. If you are thirsty, drink more; however, do not force yourself to drink water when you are feeling nauseous. Another tip is to sip water slowly in small amounts but frequently when you are sick instead of gulping in large quantities at once.
Best Fluids for Hydration When Sick
Water is definitely a reliable and the best hydration companion when you are sick. However, you can also include several other fluids in your routine when you are ill. Some of the best fluids are as follows.
Water
Let us start with the best. Water is the gold standard for hydration. However, plain water might be unappealing to you, especially when you are sick. So, add a healthy twist to it by squeezing in lemon or adding a few slices of cucumber to it for flavour.
Herbal Teas
Another great addition to your hydration routine when you are sick is herbal teas. You can try ginger or peppermint teas that can soothe your stomach and provide comfort and warmth to your body. Chamomile tea is another excellent option that promotes relaxation and aids sleep.
Electrolyte Solutions
You can also drink diluted sports drinks when you are sick to replenish the lost electrolytes through diarrhoea, vomiting, and sweating.
Broth
Chicken and vegetable broth are next on the list. They not only help you stay hydrated but also provide you with essential nutrients. When you are sick, you might not find it easy to eat and digest solid food. It is where broth will help you in two ways- keeps you hydrated and fulfils nutrition requirements.
Coconut Water
Coconut water is the most simple beverage that can help you stay hydrated when you are sick. It is rich in electrolytes. Hence, coconut water is a much healthier alternative to sugary drinks.
Diluted Juice
Craving something sweet when you are sick is common. However, instead of snacking on unhealthy treats, satisfy your sweet cravings with diluted fresh fruit juices. These will help you stay hydrated while satisfying your taste buds.
Fluids to Avoid When Sick
Below are certain fluids that you must avoid when sick.
Caffeinated Beverages
Enjoying a hot cup of coffee might seem like the right idea. However, it would be best if you avoided caffeinated drinks when you are sick. This is because these drinks act as diuretics, and they increase fluid loss.
Alcohol
Alcohol dehydrates your body. Also, it can make your immune system weak. Therefore, you must avoid drinking alcohol when you are sick to ensure optimal recovery.
Conclusion
When you're sick, it becomes much more important to listen to your body and fulfil its requirements to ensure optimal recovery. So, if your body is telling you that it is dehydrated through signs like dark urine, dry lips, and dry mouth, you must know that you are not drinking enough water. Use this guide to stay hydrated when you are sick. Also, the water bottles you use play a crucial role in the quality of your hydration. So, always use safe and non-toxic stainless steel water bottles for your hydration. Pexpo presents the most reliable 100% stainless steel water bottles that do not leach your beverages with harmful chemicals or alter their nutrient value. So, choose from our range and ensure a healthy and faster recovery.